Cheapest Streaming Service with Live TV
In this digital age, more and more people are cutting the cord and shifting from traditional cable TV to streaming services. Not only are these platforms more convenient, allowing you to watch your favorite shows and movies whenever and wherever you want, but they also tend to be more affordable. However, one of the downsides of most streaming services is that they do not offer live TV. This can be a deal-breaker for some, especially those who enjoy watching live sports or news programs. Thankfully, there are streaming services out there that do offer live TV, and in this article, we’re going to focus on the ones that won’t break the bank.
What Makes a Streaming Service Cheap?
When we say a streaming service is cheap, we’re looking at its monthly subscription fee. Most streaming services charge a monthly fee, which can range from as low as $5 to as high as $100. The price usually depends on the number of features and the amount of content the service offers. Some services will charge extra for additional features, like the ability to stream on multiple devices at once, or access to 4K content. However, we’re going to focus on the base subscription price.
It’s also worth mentioning that just because a service is cheap, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a good value. Some cheap services may have a limited content library, poor video quality, or unreliable streaming performance. So when we talk about the cheapest streaming services with live TV, we’re not only looking at price, but also at the quality of service they offer.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Streaming Service
Before we delve into our list of the cheapest streaming services with live TV, let’s first discuss the factors you should consider when choosing a streaming service. This will give you a better idea of what to look for and help you make a more informed decision.
Content Library
The first and arguably the most important factor is the service’s content library. After all, you’re subscribing to watch shows and movies, so it makes sense to choose a service that offers the content you want to watch. Some services specialize in certain types of content, like movies, original series, or kids’ shows, while others offer a broad range of content to appeal to a wider audience.
Streaming Quality
Another important factor is the quality of the stream. Most streaming services offer HD streaming, but the quality can still vary depending on your internet connection and the device you’re using to stream. Some services offer 4K streaming, but this usually comes at an extra cost. If you’re a stickler for picture quality, you may want to consider a service that offers 4K streaming.
Number of Concurrent Streams
If you’re planning to share your subscription with family members or friends, you’ll want to look at the number of concurrent streams the service allows. Most services allow at least two concurrent streams, but some only allow one, while others allow three or more. Keep in mind that the more concurrent streams a service allows, the higher the subscription fee is likely to be.
Availability of Live TV
Since we’re focusing on streaming services with live TV, this is obviously an important factor to consider. However, not all live TV offerings are created equal. Some services only offer a handful of live channels, while others offer dozens or even hundreds. Furthermore, the selection of live channels can vary greatly from one service to another, so it’s important to check which channels are included before you subscribe.
Understanding the Different Types of Streaming Services
Before we delve into our list of the cheapest streaming services with live TV, it’s important to understand the different types of streaming services available. This will give you a better idea of what to expect from each service and help you make a more informed decision.
On-Demand Streaming Services
These are the most common type of streaming services. They offer a library of shows and movies that you can watch whenever you want. Most on-demand streaming services do not offer live TV, although there are a few exceptions.
Live TV Streaming Services
These are streaming services that primarily focus on live TV. They offer a selection of live TV channels that you can stream over the internet, just like you would with traditional cable or satellite TV. Most live TV streaming services also offer some on-demand content, but their main draw is their live TV offerings.
Hybrid Streaming Services
These are streaming services that offer a mix of on-demand content and live TV. They aim to provide the best of both worlds, giving you the flexibility to watch shows and movies whenever you want, while also being able to tune into live TV.
We’ll continue to explore the cheapest streaming services with live TV in the next part of this article.
Let’s Dive Deeper into the Cheapest Streaming Services with Live TV
After our previous discussion about the best and cheapest streaming services with live TV, we are now going to dig a bit deeper. In this article, we will explore more about the other budget-friendly options that you should consider. We’ll look at the benefits, the range of content they offer, and other factors that might affect your decision.
Philo: A Budget-Friendly Option
Philo is one of the cheapest live TV streaming services on the market. With a subscription fee of just $20 per month, it offers a variety of channels covering a wide range of genres. From popular channels like AMC, Comedy Central, and MTV, Philo has got you covered. However, it’s important to note that Philo doesn’t include local channels or sports channels in their service. If you’re someone who isn’t much of a sports fan and can go without local channels, Philo could be a great, wallet-friendly option for you.
Sling TV: Customize to Your Liking
Sling TV is another affordable option that lets you customize your channel lineup. With packages starting from $35 per month, Sling TV offers two primary plans: Sling Orange and Sling Blue. Both plans come with a different set of channels, and you can also combine them for $50 per month. Although the base plans are quite affordable, adding extra channels can quickly increase the price. However, the ability to customize your package can be a big plus for those who want control over what channels they’re paying for.
AT&T WatchTV: A Solid Choice for AT&T Users
AT&T WatchTV is an inexpensive streaming service that offers a good selection of channels for just $15 per month. However, it’s worth noting that this service is available for free to AT&T wireless customers with certain plans. While the channel lineup is somewhat limited compared to more expensive services, it includes some popular networks like CNN, Cartoon Network, and TBS. Unfortunately, AT&T WatchTV does not offer any local or sports channels.
Hulu Live TV: A Comprehensive Package
While Hulu Live TV is not the cheapest option on the market, it offers a comprehensive package for its price. Starting from $64.99 per month, Hulu Live TV provides a wide range of channels, including local channels and sports networks. Plus, it includes access to Hulu’s vast library of on-demand content, making it a great all-in-one solution for those who want both live TV and a robust on-demand library. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, Hulu Live TV is definitely worth considering.
YouTube TV: A Bit Pricier but Worth It
Similar to Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV is a bit pricier than the other options mentioned, but it offers an impressive array of features. For $64.99 per month, YouTube TV offers over 85 channels, including local and sports networks. It also provides unlimited cloud DVR storage, allowing you to record your favorite shows and watch them later. Plus, you can share your YouTube TV subscription with up to five other people, making it a cost-effective option for families or roommates.
Conclusion: Choose What Suits Your Needs Best
When it comes to choosing the cheapest streaming service with live TV, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. What matters most is choosing a service that suits your needs and preferences. Do you value a wide range of channels, or are you more interested in a specific genre? Do you need local and sports channels, or can you go without them? By considering these questions and weighing the pros and cons of each service, you can find a streaming service that provides great value for your money.
Remember, the streaming market is constantly evolving, with services regularly adding and removing channels, adjusting their prices, and introducing new features. So, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the latest developments and be open to switching services if a better deal comes along.
Happy streaming!
Understanding the Streaming Service Market
Before we delve deeper into the world of affordable live TV streaming services, it’s crucial to comprehend the current landscape of this industry. The streaming service market is crowded with numerous players, each offering a unique set of features, content, and pricing models. The competition is fierce, with every provider striving to outdo the others in terms of content variety, streaming quality, user interface, and customer service.
By and large, the cost of a streaming service depends on the content it offers. For instance, premium channels like HBO or Showtime typically cost more than standard channels. Similarly, streaming services that offer live sports or exclusive content usually have higher subscription fees. However, as a consumer, your goal is to find a service that offers the best blend of content, quality, and price.
Sling TV: Budget-Friendly Live TV Streaming Service
When it comes to affordable live TV streaming, Sling TV is often the first name that comes to mind. Sling TV offers two base packages: Sling Orange and Sling Blue, each costing $35 per month. Each package provides a different set of channels. If you want all channels, you can combine both packages for $50 per month.
Sling TV is known for its a la carte channel packages, allowing users to customize their channel lineup by adding extra packs for sports, news, kids, and more. This allows you to personalize your package, ensuring you only pay for the channels you want.
Philo: The Cheapest Live TV Streaming Service
Philo is arguably the cheapest live TV streaming service available today. Priced at just $25 per month, it offers over 60 channels, including popular networks like AMC, BET, Comedy Central, Discovery Channel, Food Network, HGTV, and Nickelodeon. However, it’s worth noting that Philo lacks local channels and sports networks.
One of the biggest selling points of Philo is its unlimited cloud DVR. Unlike many other streaming services that limit your DVR space, Philo lets you record as much content as you want. Plus, your recordings are saved for a month, giving you plenty of time to catch up on your favorite shows.
YouTube TV: Comprehensive Yet Affordable
YouTube TV is another excellent option for budget-conscious cord cutters. At $65 per month, it might seem more expensive than Sling TV or Philo. However, it offers a comprehensive channel lineup of over 85 networks, including local, sports, and premium channels. Additionally, it provides unlimited cloud DVR storage, which is a major plus for users who record lots of content.
What sets YouTube TV apart from its competitors is its robust user interface and excellent streaming quality. It’s easy to navigate, making it a great choice for those who are new to streaming. Plus, it’s available on a wide range of devices, from smartphones to smart TVs to gaming consoles.
Considerations for Choosing a Live TV Streaming Service
While price is a significant factor when selecting a live TV streaming service, it’s not the only one. Here are some other aspects to consider:
1. Content: Make sure the service offers the channels and shows you want to watch. If you’re a sports fan, look for a service that provides a good selection of sports networks. If you love movies, opt for a service with a wide range of movie channels.
2. Device Compatibility: Not all streaming services are compatible with every device. Make sure the service you choose works with your preferred streaming device, whether it’s a Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, or something else.
3. User Interface: The usability of a streaming service can significantly impact your viewing experience. Look for a service with an intuitive, easy-to-navigate interface.
4. Additional Features: Features like cloud DVR, simultaneous streams, and on-demand content can add value to your subscription. Consider these features when comparing different services.
Conclusion
There are several affordable live TV streaming services available today, each with its own set of features, content, and pricing models. As a consumer, your goal should be to find a service that offers the best value for your money. Whether it’s Sling TV, Philo, or YouTube TV, each of these options has its own strengths and weaknesses. By considering factors like content, device compatibility, user interface, and additional features, you can select a service that best meets your needs and budget.
Continuing the Hunt for the Cheapest Streaming Service with Live TV
In the previous parts of this series, we’ve explored several affordable streaming services with live TV. Yet, the search continues. In this part, we will delve into a few more options that are worth considering. They are not only affordable but also provide a great variety of channels and content that cater to different tastes and preferences. So, whether you are a sports enthusiast, a news junkie, a movie buff, or a reality TV fan, these streaming services got you covered. Let’s dive in!
Philo: A Budget-Friendly Choice
For those who are looking to save some bucks on their monthly cable bills, Philo can be an excellent choice. At just $20 per month, Philo is one of the cheapest streaming services with live TV available today. It offers over 60 channels, including popular ones like AMC, Comedy Central, Discovery, Food Network, HGTV, and Nickelodeon. However, sports and news channels are notably absent in Philo’s lineup. Therefore, Philo might not be the right choice for sports fans or those who want to stay updated with the latest news. On the bright side, Philo comes with unlimited DVR storage, and you can stream on up to three devices simultaneously.
Sling TV: A Customizable Option
Sling TV stands out in the crowd for its flexibility and customization options. Starting at $35 per month, Sling TV allows users to pick their own channels and build their own packages. So, if you are particular about the channels you want and don’t want to pay for those you don’t watch, Sling TV might be the right fit for you. Sling TV offers two base packages: Sling Orange and Sling Blue. Both come with a different set of channels, and you can combine them for $50 per month for a broader selection. Sports lovers would appreciate the inclusion of ESPN in Sling Orange, while news enthusiasts would find CNN, Fox News, and NBC on Sling Blue. Additionally, Sling TV offers a Cloud DVR feature, but it comes with an extra cost.
AT&T WatchTV: A Simple and Straightforward Service
AT&T WatchTV is another affordable streaming service with live TV that you should consider. At $15 per month, AT&T WatchTV provides over 30 channels, including popular ones like CNN, Cartoon Network, and TBS. While the channel selection is limited compared to other services, AT&T WatchTV’s low cost makes it a viable option for those on a tight budget. However, like Philo, AT&T WatchTV lacks sports channels. Also, it does not offer any DVR capabilities, which might be a deal-breaker for some. But if you are looking for a simple and straightforward streaming service without any bells and whistles, AT&T WatchTV might just be what you need.
Locast: A Free Alternative
Yes, you read it right. Locast is a non-profit service that streams local broadcast channels for free. It is available in select markets across the U.S., including major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. While it doesn’t offer cable channels or premium content, Locast provides access to local ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC stations, making it an excellent option for those who want to catch local news and sports events. However, since it’s a free service, expect to see some ads. Also, the streaming quality might not be as high as the paid services. But if you can live with these minor drawbacks, Locast can be a great way to watch live TV without spending a dime.
Final Thoughts
Finding the cheapest streaming service with live TV can be a daunting task given the myriad of options available. But with a clear understanding of your viewing preferences and budget, you can find a service that fits your needs perfectly. Whether you choose Philo, Sling TV, AT&T WatchTV, or even the free Locast, remember that the best streaming service is the one that gives you the most value for your money. So, don’t just look at the price tag. Consider the number and type of channels, the availability of DVR, the streaming quality, and other features that matter to you. Happy streaming!